How to Stop Chafing With a Dog Harness

Some dogs have sensitive skin and may experience chafing with regular use of their harness. Chafing results when the materials of the harness rub the dog in the same spot and cause rashes, sores and loss of fur. Harnesses made of different types of rope, twine, leather and nylon tend to cause more chafing than harnesses made of softer materials such as fleece or neoprene. You can purchase a new padded harness from a local pet supplies store, purchase a fleece strap wrap to place over your harness, or add your own customized padding to a harness you already own to prevent further chafing on your dog.

Things You'll Need

Padded dog harness

Strap wrap

Measuring tape

Scissors

Fleece

Needle

Thread

Purchase a new padded harness from a pet supplies store. Many different styles of padded harnesses are available on the market that are specifically made to prevent chafing.

Purchase a strap wrap from your local pet supplies store. Strap wraps are wraps made of fleece that attach to any harness through means of a hook and loop. They come in two sizes, 36 inches and 50 inches, but can be customized to any length by cutting them with a scissors. Measure the area on your dog's harness that you'd like to wrap and cut the strap wrap accordingly. Wrap the fleece wrap around the harness and secure it in place by pushing the hooks through the loops.

Make your own fleece wrap to pad your dog's harness. Measure the section of your dog's harness you'd like to wrap and cut a piece of fleece the same length. You can purchase a piece of fleece for this, or cut up a fleece blanket. The width of the fleece padding should be cut to 10 inches. Wrap the fleece around that section of the harness by rolling it around and overlapping it until it's tight and you cannot roll any more. Use a needle and thread to sew the fleece together by stitching it along the seam.